Flights
Flying is
the fastest and often the most expensive way to travel from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai, but with a bit of luck you can score very good deals for as little as
USD 8,068.75.
Things to remember: Note that some of the airlines may have restrictions on checked luggage weight or require paying extra for check-in, choosing seats or transportation of oversized luggage.
If opting for a flight, calculate the time you will spend getting to and from the airports as well as the waiting time before your flight, getting through immigration in case of an international flight and recovering your checked luggage.
In certain cases all these procedures can add no less than 5 hours to your total travel time.
Airlines flying between Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai
Siam Scenic
Bus
Travelling from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai overland will inevitably take longer but in many cases it is
the cheapest option if you opt for a bus.
Things to remember: For a more comfortable ride opt for a higher-class bus wherever possible. These buses usually have soft reclining seats and are equipped with air-conditioning and on-board toilets.
They often include water, snacks or a light lunch into your ticket price and make bathroom stops en-route.
Companies operating bus routes between Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai
GreenBus (กรีนบัส (รถเขียว)), So Good Airline Service and Travel
Taxi
Some travellers consider taxi to be
the most convenient form of overland transport thanks to flexible departure times, a possibility to choose the size of the car you need, and a hassle-free door-to-door service.
Things to remember: If you are planning to make detours during your trip, discuss it with your driver or service provider in advance as it may affect the price.
Companies offering charters between Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai
Andaman Shuttle, Aya Service, BangkokTaxi24, Easyride Services, Freedom Tour Taxi Service (Freedom Tour and Taxi Service), Go2Trip, Gosafe Transport (โกเซฟ ทรานสปอร์ต), Khamkhun Tour And Travel (ค้ำคูณ ทัวร์ แอนด์ ทราเวล), Kim Transfers Thailand (Thailand Taxi Airport and Travel), Mekong Transfer, North Ride Go, Smart En Plus (สมาร์ท เอ็น พลัส), Smile On Transport, T Buddy Service Chiang Mai, Thailand Travel Taxi (ไทยแลนด์ ทราเวล แท็กซี่), Than Car Service (ธาน คาร์ เซอร์วิส), Torch (ทอช)
Van
Vans are a great alternative - or, in many cases - your only option - if you need to travel overland within one and the same province or neighbouring provinces or states. Vans ply the roads between Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai, too.
Things to remember: When travelling by van with huge luggage buying a separate seat for your suitcase or backpack is a good idea. Do not expect there is a roomy luggage compartment in a van - there is actually none and your fellow passengers are unlikely to appreciate your luggage stuck under their feet, alas.
Companies operating vans between Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai
Aya Service, K Buddy (เค บัดดี้), Pai Friendly Tour, So Good Airline Service and Travel, Terminal Green Pai, Yortdoy Travel (ยอดดอย ทราเวล)
